ELLSWORTH – Edward “Eddie” Povich, a former Democratic state legislator and a longtime shopkeeper in Ellsworth, died Thursday at his home after suffering an apparent heart attack.

He was 60 years old.

Povich, who served four terms in the Legislature up until 2002 and was a member of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, operated Mike’s Country Store on Water Street in downtown Ellsworth.

He was part of a family prominent in Ellsworth for many years, dating back to his parents, Shirley and Helen Povich, who first opened the store. His father also was a local attorney who later became the region’s district attorney, and his older brother, Michael Povich, is the current district attorney for Hancock and Washington counties.

Gary Fortier, a city councilor and longtime Ellsworth resident, has known the family for years.

“I remember going into the shop to buy penny candy when I was a kid. That was probably 50 years ago,” he said. “More recently, I remember talking with Eddie on politics or local issues. Whether we agreed or disagreed, we always listened to each other.”

Between the 117th and the 120th Maine Legislature, Povich held the seat for District 127, which included the communities of Ellsworth, Clifton, Dedham, Otis and Mariaville. The district has since been restructured.

While in the Legislature, Povich was an advocate for domestic violence awareness and was instrumental in finding funding for local nonprofit groups. Charles “Dusty” Fisher, D-Brewer, who served with Povich in the House, said his friend was always looking to help “the people who live in the shadows.”

“He was very vocal and very passionate about being in the Legislature,” Fisher said. “He took his responsibilities seriously and always walked into the House chamber asking, ‘How can I do the right thing?'”

Gov. John Baldacci said in a press release that Povich “was a hard worker and a kind and generous man. He owned and operated a small business and still found the energy to give 100 percent to his constituents during his tenure in the Maine Legislature. Eddie was a man of integrity who cared deeply about public service.”

Povich was best-known locally as the garrulous proprietor of one of Ellsworth’s oldest businesses. For years, Povich used to put out glass jars on the counter at Mike’s Country Store and conduct “penny polls” about current issues both locally and at the state level.

“He was very comfortable behind the counter there. I think he took pride in continuing that family tradition,” Fortier said.

Micki Sumpter, executive director of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce, said Povich was the consummate small-business man.

“Even when he was in Augusta representing the city, his passion was small business,” she said. “Any time I went down to the store, he would always ask, ‘Is there anything I can do help the chamber?’

“He was a wonderful man. He would always make me laugh, and if he didn’t, he’d at least make me think.”

Mike’s Country Store was closed Friday until further notice.

Povich leaves behind a wife, Mary, a step-daughter, Jody, and three grandchildren.

Gov. Baldacci said he would order flags to fly at half-staff in Ellsworth on the day of Ed Povich’s funeral.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.

erussell@bangordailynews.net

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